Stephen Roche

My studies focus on CFD, aerodynamics and aircraft performance. My thesis involves the research of improvements for the aerodynamic performance and efficiency of quadrotor vehicles.

Cranfield University is the only institution in the United Kingdom that caters exclusively to postgraduate studies. Its principal specialisations are in Aeronautics and Management. As such, it maintains strong industrial links through consultancy and contract research with all areas of industry. These include major aerospace and several UK based F1 teams. It boasts major research facilities including instrumented aircraft, 11 wind tunnels and a commercial airport.
For more information see http://www.cranfield.ac.uk

I completed two placements totalling 11 months with Airbus in Toulouse; eight months with the A300/310 and A330/340 flight control departments in 2004 and 2005 and three months with the A380 flight control department in 2005.

I provided technical support to airlines regarding A330/340 flight control systems, specialising on high lift (flap and slat) issues.

Concurrently, I produced training and diagnostic tools and documentation for the A330/340 high lift devices and flight controls. Later I produced system descriptions for the A380 high lift devices and systems.

While in Airbus, I wrote the infamous Stagiaire Newsletter providing a communication medium for 250+ people on placements. This involved organising events, parties and accomodation.